The 32-year-old has conceded that die Roten are the biggest in the country, but asserted his belief that BVB are making huge strides on and off the pitch.

"The fact remains that the Bavarians are number one in Germany," he told Kicker. "We have been making big steps to them athletically and financially, though.

"In the past few years we have let our talking be done on the pitch. But, nevertheless, a realistic goal for us this year is to once again qualify for the Champions League."

He continued by praising former team-mate Shinji Kagawa, who moved to Manchester United at the start of the summer transfer window, but declared that the arrival of Marco Reus from BorussiaMonchengladbach will be a big boost.

"Shinji will be missed, but in Marco Reus we have gained a tremendous talent. We have enormous strength in depth in attack and can replace Shinji."

The former Germany international also praised boss Jurgen Klopp, and stated that he wants to remain at the club for as long as possible.

"The coach has given me confidence, and I have paid him back accordingly. I think I see a role for myself in the team if I'm healthy. I want to stay for a long time," he concluded.